Cora Jade's Post-WWE Ring Name: Net Worth in 2025

Cora Jade’s Post-WWE Ring Name

Cora Jade, known outside the ring as Brianna Coda, carved her path in wrestling starting on the independent circuit under the name Elayna Black. The ring name isn’t just a label—it’s a core part of a wrestler’s identity and how fans connect with their story. After rising through WWE’s NXT, where she caught attention as Cora Jade, she’s now returned to her original ring name, Elayna Black, following her WWE release. This shift signals a fresh start and a return to her roots, sparking interest among fans and industry watchers who see it as a new chapter for her career outside WWE.

Cora Jade Net Worth and Biography

Before exploring Cora Jade’s post-WWE ring name changes, it’s important to understand the person behind the persona—Brianna Coda—and the financial and career milestones she’s achieved so far. This background helps paint the picture of why her ring name switch matters and how it fits into her journey.

Early Life and Wrestling Beginnings

Born on January 14, 2001, in Chicago, Illinois, Brianna Coda stepped into wrestling as a teenager. She debuted professionally in late 2018 under the ring name Elayna Black. The independent circuit was her proving ground, where she honed her craft in promotions like Impact Wrestling, Rise Wrestling, Shimmer Women Athletes, and even appeared briefly in AEW.

Her early career included winning the Zen of Women’s Athletics Tournament in 2019, a key milestone that put her on the map. Those formative years were about building skill, character, and momentum—crucial elements for any wrestler’s future success.

WWE Career Highlights

In January 2021, Brianna signed a developmental contract with WWE, where she began wrestling as Cora Jade. She quickly made waves with her energetic, rebellious style and gained a loyal fan base. From her debut on 205 Live to high-stakes matches in NXT, Jade carved out a spot among the company’s rising stars.

Notably, she won the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship with Roxanne Perez, showcasing her ability to work within a team dynamic while also shining in solo storylines. Her character evolved steadily, including a heel turn in mid-2022 that added layers to her persona and storyline arcs.

Injury and Resilience

Like many wrestlers, Jade faced setbacks, including a torn ACL in early 2024, sidelining her for much of the year. This injury tested her resilience and determination. Despite time away, her popularity and skill have kept her prominent among wrestling fans and insiders.

Net Worth and Earnings

As of 2023–2024, Cora Jade’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 to $2 million. This reflects her earnings from WWE contracts, independent appearances, and merchandise sales. Her annual salary during WWE years was around half a million dollars, a testament to her growing stature in the wrestling world.

But net worth goes beyond numbers—it also represents marketability, fan engagement, and potential for future growth. Her willingness to adapt—shifting her ring name back to Elayna Black—is part of how she protects and expands her brand.

Why Know the Bio When Talking Ring Names?

Understanding Cora Jade’s journey—from Brianna Coda’s first steps as Elayna Black, through WWE highs and injury battles, to her current standing—helps explain the significance of “Cora Jade’s Post-WWE Ring Name.” It’s not just a name change; it’s a strategic realignment with her roots and a statement of reinvention. Her net worth and career shape the narrative of what lies ahead.

Cora Jade’s Career Journey Before WWE

Before Brianna Coda became known as Cora Jade on WWE’s NXT stage, she was Elayna Black—an independent wrestling standout forging her path with grit, drive, and raw talent. Her time before WWE shaped her identity, style, and connection with fans, laying a strong foundation for her future success. Let’s explore the early chapters of her wrestling journey, highlighting the promotions, matches, and milestones that defined Elayna Black.

Independent Circuit Beginnings and Training

Brianna started her wrestling career at age 17 after training at the Freelance Wrestling Academy in Illinois. Under the name Elayna Black, she debuted on December 9, 2018. The academy experience gave her the basics, but it was the independent scene where she really came alive—toughening her ring skills and crafting a unique style that mixes agility with a fierce attitude.

Her wrestling style stood out for its blend of technical maneuvers and high-impact moves. She carried an energy that grabbed the audience’s attention and a knack for telling stories through physicality in the ring.

Key Promotions and Early Success

During her early years, Elayna Black made a name on several respected independent promotions. Some of the highlights include:

Game Changer Wrestling (GCW): Known for its hardcore crowd and intense matches, GCW gave Elayna a platform to wrestle varied opponents and sharpen her adaptability.
Glory Pro Wrestling: Here, she gained important exposure and experience, facing strong female competitors and building more ring psychology.
Rise Wrestling and Shimmer Women Athletes: Both well-regarded for elevating women’s wrestling, she participated in tournaments and high-profile matches that tested her limits and boosted her reputation.

One of her earliest achievements was winning the Zen of Women’s Athletics Tournament in 2019. This victory marked her as a rising star and demonstrated her commitment to climbing the ladder through hard work rather than shortcuts.

Match Style and Fan Connection

Elayna Black’s matches on the independent circuit carried an unmistakable spark. She was a wrestler you could count on to bring intensity without losing finesse. Her finishing moves like the Double Arm DDT, known as “Fade to Black,” became memorable trademarks.

She wasn’t just executing moves — she connected with the crowd through her passion and storytelling. Whether playing the determined underdog or the fierce challenger, Elayna’s presence felt genuine. This helped her stand out in a crowded field and built a loyal fan base even before WWE noticed her.

Growth and Momentum Leading Into WWE

By the end of 2020, Elayna Black had gained solid momentum with increasing bookings and recognition across the independent scene. Her appearances in Impact Wrestling and even AEW Dark gave a taste of bigger stages while she kept refining her craft.

This steady rise caught WWE’s attention, and in early 2021, she signed her developmental contract, marking the end of her Elayna Black era in the indie world and the beginning of Cora Jade’s WWE chapter.

This foundation in the independent circuit is crucial to understanding why “Cora Jade’s Post-WWE Ring Name” matters so much. Returning to Elayna Black is more than a name change; it’s a return to the roots where her passion burned brightest, shaped by every hard-fought match and crowd cheer along the way.

Evolution of the Cora Jade Persona in WWE

When Brianna Coda joined WWE in early 2021, she stepped into a spotlight that demanded a character as striking as her in-ring ability. Transitioning from Elayna Black—her indie wrestling identity—she became Cora Jade, a persona defined by rebellious energy and a distinct skateboarder edge. This evolution wasn’t just a name change; it was an entire rebranding aligned with WWE’s style, aiming to introduce a fresh, vibrant character who could capture the imagination of NXT’s passionate audience.

Her journey inside WWE NXT traced a clear path from a youthful face with relatable attitude to a more hardened, complex heel. This transformation helped her stand out, showcasing her ability to adapt while navigating the unique pressures of WWE’s developmental system.

The Skateboarder Character: A Bratty, Youthful Rebel

Cora Jade’s early WWE persona leaned heavily on her skateboarder look, instantly recognizable as she rolled to the ring with a skateboard in hand. This was more than a prop; it echoed her “punk rock” vibe—a skater girl with an edge. It fit her personality perfectly by blending youthful defiance and a lighthearted spirit.

Her character was cheeky and playful but always carried a hint of brattiness, which made her relatable to a younger crowd while setting her apart from other babyface wrestlers. This skateboard gimmick gave her entrances a sense of movement and personality that grabbed attention effortlessly.

The visual identity was simple yet effective:

Bright, casual attire reflecting modern streetwear
Skateboard as a signature prop and symbol of rebellion
A fast-talking, confident promo style that connected with fans

This incarnation was essential in establishing her as an exciting new name to watch—but it wasn’t static.

Storylines with Roxanne Perez: From Allies to Rivals

One of the strongest motors for Cora Jade’s character development was her relationship with fellow NXT star Roxanne Perez. Together, they found success, winning the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship at The Great American Bash. This alliance built Cora as a capable and reliable tag partner and added depth to her character’s narrative.

However, WWE writers drip-fed tension that eventually exploded at NXT Heatwave 2022. Jade’s shocking heel turn involved attacking Perez, a moment that not only ended their partnership but redefined Cora’s persona. She painted herself as a darker, more provocative figure, shifting away from the skater girl innocence to a challenger willing to use underhanded tactics.

The fallout sparked a heated rivalry, giving Jade layers beyond her initial bubbly image. Her promos turned sharper, and her in-ring style adapted to more aggressive tactics. This heel turn was a bold step that signaled maturity in her character storytelling.

Notable Matches and Character Milestones

Throughout her WWE tenure, Cora Jade’s in-ring work mirrored her persona shifts. Early matches played up her youthful energy and athleticism, with quick, high-flying maneuvers that complemented her skater theme. She developed signature moves like the “Fade to Black” Double Arm DDT, which fans grew to recognize.

Post-heel turn, her style grew more ruthless and calculated — prioritizing psychological tactics and aggressive strikes. Some key matches that highlighted her progression include:

NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship victory with Roxanne Perez: cementing her status as a rising star.
The Great American Bash main events: showcasing her ability to perform on bigger stages.
Pick Your Poison and Weapons Wild matches: embracing her darker, edgier heel persona with unpredictable tactics.
Championship challenges for the NXT Women’s Title, although she fell short, she remained a credible threat.

Despite injuries that sidelined her at critical moments, Jade’s tenacity in returning reinforced the “fighter” aspect of her character, keeping fans invested.

Transitioning from Elayna Black to Cora Jade: WWE’s Branding Influence

The shift from Elayna Black to Cora Jade was more than cosmetic—it represented WWE’s effort to shape Brianna’s identity within its storytelling framework. While Elayna Black was molded by independent promotions and had a raw, authentic vibe, Cora Jade’s persona was honed for televised drama, complete with sharper angles and broader appeal.

WWE’s branding encouraged a more defined character arc:

From a fun-loving skater girl to a cunning heel with a provocative look.
More scripted promos focusing on personality quirks and emotional beats.
Expanded storytelling through feuds and alliances that kept viewers hooked.

This transition illustrates how WWE nurtures talent by building distinct characters tailored for larger audiences, making the most of their strengths while adding polish.

Cora Jade’s growth in WWE—from the bright-eyed skateboarder entering the NXT ring to a complex heel who could command a storyline spotlight—exemplifies her adaptability and potential. Understanding this evolution casts new meaning on her current decision to reclaim the Elayna Black name, reconnecting with the foundation of her wrestling identity outside the WWE system.

Reasons Behind Reverting to Elayna Black After WWE Release

When Brianna Coda, known to wrestling fans as Cora Jade, left WWE, she quickly embraced her original ring name, Elayna Black. This wasn’t just a casual choice—it reflects a strategic and personal decision shaped by several factors. Returning to Elayna Black helps her navigate the complexities of trademark rights, reconnect with her established fanbase, and align her identity with who she really wants to be in the ring. Here’s why this move makes sense on multiple levels.

Trademark and Branding Considerations

One of the biggest reasons wrestlers revert to previous names after WWE is legal ownership. WWE often registers trademarks on the ring names it creates or popularizes. This means talent may lose the legal right to use those names professionally once they part ways with the company.

For Cora Jade, the name “Cora Jade” is owned by WWE, which likely limits her ability to use it outside their platform. Going back to Elayna Black, a ring name she owned and used before WWE, instantly gives her control over her branding and career. This kind of name reversion is common:

Avoids costly legal battles or licensing fees.
Protects career longevity by keeping the brand fully in her hands.
Enables freedom to book shows, sell merchandise, and build media presence without restrictions.

This return to her original identity signals a fresh start built on her own terms, allowing her to keep her legacy intact without WWE’s involvement.

Fanbase Recognition and Emotional Connect

Elayna Black isn’t just a name; it’s a connection point with fans who saw her grow from the ground up. Wrestling is a story-driven sport, and fans remember the raw, authentic performers they first fell in love with. Reclaiming Elayna Black taps into this existing loyalty and emotional bond.

For longtime followers, the switch feels like a homecoming. It acknowledges the part of her journey wrestling enthusiasts respect most: her independent spirit, early hard work, and unfiltered style. This familiarity helps her rebuild momentum quickly after WWE, when she needs to:

Rekindle trust and excitement among indie fans.
Bridge the gap between WWE audiences and the indie circuit.
Signal that she’s back with authenticity, not just another corporate persona.

This connection can accelerate her comeback, as fans rally around a familiar and beloved figure.

Aligning Name with Wrestling Style and Persona

Elayna Black captures the essence of Brianna Coda’s wrestling style and persona better than any WWE-given name. The Elayna Black character fits an edgier, more grounded identity—one that blends her fearless in-ring aggression with emotional storytelling.

Post-WWE, she’s free to craft a persona that feels true to herself without creative restrictions. Elayna Black is a name that reflects:

Her raw, gritty wrestling style honed in the independent scene.
A character that is fierce, independent, and authentic.
A brand aligned with the image she built from the start, rather than one designed for mass-market TV.

This alignment helps her stand out confidently in a competitive landscape. It’s not just returning to a name but to a style and identity she’s comfortable owning and evolving without limits.

Reverting to Elayna Black after WWE is a smart, practical move rooted in protecting her career, connecting with fans, and embracing a persona that fits her true self. For Brianna Coda, it’s the next chapter built on everything she achieved before—and beyond—her WWE days.

Future Outlook and Impact of the Name Change

Cora Jade’s decision to reclaim her original ring name, Elayna Black, is much more than a simple return to a familiar moniker. It signals a deliberate move that will shape her wrestling career’s next chapter. This change reflects both practical considerations and deeper connections to her roots. As Elayna Black, she’s already making waves outside WWE, stepping back into arenas where her past achievements still echo. Let’s explore how this shift impacts her path forward, both in terms of where she’s wrestling today and how she’s planning for longevity in a demanding industry.

Return to Independent and TNA Circuits

Since stepping away from WWE, Elayna Black has actively re-engaged with the independent wrestling scene and made a notable return to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA). This phase marks a fresh chapter loaded with challenges and opportunities to prove herself once again in more varied environments.

Her debut back in TNA began with a major spotlight moment at the Genesis event early in 2025, where she boldly confronted the reigning TNA Knockouts World Champion, Masha Slamovich. This set up a high-stakes title match at the Sacrifice pay-per-view on March 14, 2025. Despite a strong performance and hitting her signature move, the Apron Destroyer, Elayna ultimately fell short as Slamovich retained the title with her finishing move, Requiem.

This intense rivalry isn’t just a match on paper—it’s a statement of intent. Elayna’s willingness to challenge for a prestigious title in TNA reasserts her as a serious competitor beyond WWE’s scope. Alongside TNA, she’s been appearing in independent promotions, keeping busy while rebuilding her momentum under the Elayna Black name.

Here’s what stands out about her recent activity:

High-profile TNA return takes her back to a ring where she first made connections as a fan turned competitor.
The championship challenge confirms she’s not just coasting but actively pushing into upper-card status.
Independent shows help her refine her craft, strengthen fan relationships, and maintain visibility.
Coming back from injury and ring inactivity, these appearances mark a crucial comeback phase.

By facing top-tier opponents and reigniting rivalries, Elayna Black is reminding wrestling circles that she can be a major player outside WWE. This versatility strengthens her reputation and signals a willingness to tackle fresh challenges head-on.

Building a Sustainable Wrestling Career Post-Major Promotion

Reclaiming the name Elayna Black does more than restore an old identity—it provides a foundation for a long, adaptable wrestling career that can thrive outside the pressures of a major promotion like WWE.

Using a ring name she fully owns offers several advantages for sustainability:

Creative freedom: Without corporate restrictions, Elayna can evolve her character authentically, tailoring her style and storylines to fit various audiences and promotions.
Brand control: She keeps all rights to her persona, allowing her to market herself independently, negotiate bookings freely, and generate personal merchandise without hurdles.
Fan connection: Longtime followers appreciate the continuity and authenticity of her original name, which can lead to stronger loyalty and word-of-mouth support.
Career flexibility: Being well-known under a consistent name across promotions helps with bookings and collaborations across the wrestling world, from indies to international circuits.

Many wrestlers face uphill battles after leaving WWE because their former ring names are tied up in legal ownership by the company. By reviving Elayna Black, Brianna Coda avoids these pitfalls and builds a foundation better suited for growth on her terms.

This approach not only preserves her legacy but also allows her to stay relevant. Wrestling careers often require reinvention, and having a recognizable but adaptable identity can be the key to thriving long term. Elayna Black’s return to this name signals a wise, confident step toward building a brand and a career no longer limited to any one promotion.

In summary, Cora Jade’s post-WWE ring name change to Elayna Black opens doors to fresh challenges in the independents and TNA, while laying the groundwork for a sustainable career built on autonomy, fan loyalty, and creative expression.

Conclusion

Cora Jade’s post-WWE ring name shift back to Elayna Black carries weight beyond a fresh label. It’s a clear move to reclaim control over her wrestling identity and career direction. The name Elayna Black ties her to the roots where she first earned respect on the independent scene, nurturing a genuine connection with fans that WWE’s branding couldn’t capture.

Ring names shape more than just images—they anchor a wrestler’s story, style, and legacy. By returning to Elayna Black, Brianna Coda is setting a course where she owns her narrative, creative choices, and brand fully. This choice opens doors to new opportunities and underscores her resilience in a competitive industry.

As she builds momentum outside WWE, Elayna Black’s name change signals that sometimes, going back to where you began is the smartest way forward. Whether fans follow her next steps in indies or larger promotions, her journey reminds us how identity in wrestling is as powerful as any championship. Thank you for joining this look at her evolving legacy—stay tuned for how this story unfolds.